updated 11:30 am EDT, Wed May 18, 2011

Leica to show off new M9-P camera next month?

German camera maker Leica will soon release a new camera, the M9-P, according to LeicaRumors. Early versions of the camera may already be out there, with reportedly one carried by British singer Seal through Los Angeles' airport last week. It differed from current cameras as it lacked a few modern touches and legacy holdovers such as a rewind crank, a battery compartment, a film advance lever, or a reversing lever.

The camera was also unique in color and finish. It is expected that Leica will formally introduce the retro-styled digital camera on June 21. It will likely cost $700 more than the company's currentM9 model. Changes are expected to be mainly cosmetic and include scratch-resistant sapphire glass and exterior finish along with new firmware.